Portable Disney Channel

Smart phones with FLO TV technology and the FLO TV standalone unit will now have access to ABC and Disney Channel shows like Lost, Grey's Anatomy, Hannah Montana and JONAS.

Looks like Disney's not only recognizing the rise of casual multi-platform gaming and the spread of franchises, but they're also diving into to on demand market.

Soon their movies will be easily accessible on Keychest and their television shows will be available on portable devices and cell phones.

Disney's really making an effort to be on the forefront of media reach and technology.

Disney Gaming

As referenced many time on this blog, Disney, especially under CEO Bob Iger, is very into spreading a franchise over as many platforms as possible for optimum return on little new content and creativity.

Lately, noticeable in the anticipated Epic Mickey game, Iger's noticing the rise in "casual gaming." This leads to speculation on if Disney will attempt to acquire some game companies. Groups like Electronic Arts are Take-Two Interactive are vulnerable for takeover after huge falls in shares.

Iger only somewhat plays into this speculation saying, "we need to make sure we are structured... to take advantage of all elements of the game business."

Yea, Iger, work those franchises.

Disney Channel Ratings

"Ratings Highlights for November 09 - Final National Ratings

Disney Channel Ranks as TV’s No. 1 Network in Prime for the 57th Consecutive Month in Kids 6-11 and for the 56th in Tweens 9-14

“Phineas and Feb” Stands as the Month’s No. 1 TV Series in Kids 6-11 for the 2nd Consecutive Month, and Also Ranks No. 1 in Tweens 9-14

Disney Channel Airs TV’s Top 3 Series in Tweens 9-14, and 3 of the Top 4 in Kids 6-11"

Basically, this is why Disney's bringing Rich Ross up the ranks.

Disney Method for Repeat Customers

A key element to Disney's success is their great brand recognition and trust in a family friendly image. A great example of the way they maintain this image is their theme parks. Disney has strict guidelines for their park employees to keep up an appearance of cleanliness and friendliness. To keep up morale, employees are encouraged that they are "cast members" in a show, not working. It's true, they must be in character if they are in public view, characters in costume are not allowed to talk and must make sure they are in a safe area before removing their suits so as not to crush some small child's dreams.

Business Week outlined other points of Disney's strategy for a good customer environment for gaining repeat customers. This stresses the role of the secondary customer (the one influencing the core customer, but not necessarily buying anything themselves). These points include:

- "Train employees to be respectful of all customers, including children."

- "Make waiting in line an entertaining experience."

- "Be "show-ready."

- "Keep the show on stage."

- "Encourage your team to be "assertively friendly."

See the site for more info.